Critical Period

Pronunciation
/KRIT-i-kul PER-i-od/
Category
Behavior
Singular
Critical Period
Plural
Critical Periods

Definition

A specific time window during an organism's development when exposure to certain stimuli is crucial for normal development of a particular trait.

Etymology

From Latin 'criticus', meaning 'critical', and 'periodus', meaning 'period'

Example

The critical period for visual development in birds occurs during the first few weeks after hatching.

Related Terms

  • Development
  • Sensory
  • Imprint

Usage Notes

Critical periods are often associated with learning and behavioral development. Outside of these windows, the organism may not be as receptive to these stimuli.